Nurse Sophie Mattuchi has seen a lot of angry patients in the ER, but no one's ever rattled her like Jack Carter. He has no right to blame her for his friend's death. Sophie did everything she could. Didn't she? Yet his accusations sting, and that sets off all kinds of internal alarms. She's never cared this much about any man's opinion of her. But Jack is different. He stirs up feelings. Strong feelings. Guilt. Anger. Attraction. Curiosity. Sympathy. Sophie's definitely not interested in Jack, but even if she was, he'd never forgive her for the decision she made that night in the hospital. Would he?

If you've never read any of Catherine Lanigan's books, Sophie's Path will stop you in your tracks, and have you adding her other books to your to-read list. This is the first of Catherine's books I've read, and though I later found out this is the 6th book in the collection series, this can be read as a standalone - at least I have no problems following along. I think what makes this possible is the focus Sophie's Path placed on its leading characters, Sophie and Jack (and I would like to throw in Frenchie here. Can't help it. That dog is CUTE!). The emotional development of both Sophie and Jack carries this story through, not to mention the many topics Sophie's Path touched on. Wow! I didn't expect the depth this book, a Harlequin Heartwarming novel can exhibit. I guess I expected something lighter, but that's not to say this is all serious and deep thoughts. The heartwarming factor is also in the many lighter and adorable moments throughout the story. Frenchie does play a huge role in many of those, and that kiss....*sigh. Heartwarming is right on mark, and the level of impact it makes you invest your time and yes, your heart in these characters, that's just great storytelling.

NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.

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Despite being told by her college creative-writing professor that she had "no writing talent whatsoever", Catherine Lanigan has been writing novels for over 35 years. Her bestselling romances have been translated into 27 languages. She is the author of the Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile.